Gore Vidal expresses a deep appreciation for the art of comedy, whether it's sophisticated or more straightforward. He finds immense satisfaction in the process of eliciting laughter from an audience, suggesting that the act of making people laugh is both fulfilling and transformative. This highlights his belief in the power of humor to engage and connect with people on a profound level.
The quote reflects Vidal's understanding of comedy as a tool for both entertainment and introspection. By suggesting that laughter can "remove" the audience's insides, he implies that comedy can evoke genuine emotions and lead to self-discovery, thus making it a vital component of human experience and communication.